KAMPALA
Leader of the Opposition (LOP) Joel Ssenyonyi has urged Members of Parliament to uphold accountability regardless of who holds public office, as Speaker Jacob Oboth Oboth officially launched the induction seminar for the 12th Parliament and outlined a seven-point strategic vision for the new legislature.
Speaking during the opening of the induction seminar in Munyonyo, Ssenyonyi said accountability should remain a fundamental principle guiding Parliament’s oversight role, emphasizing that public resources belong to Ugandans and not to the government or Parliament.
“Let us defend the principle of accountability with equal determination, irrespective of who occupies public office,” Ssenyonyi said.
“Public resources belong neither to government nor to Parliament. They belong to the people of Uganda. Every shilling appropriated by this House carries with it a solemn obligation to account for how it is spent.”
“That obligation does not change with political seasons because accountability is the currency through which citizens place their trust in public institutions.”
During the same event, Speaker Jacob Oboth Oboth outlined the strategic priorities that will guide the work of the 12th Parliament over its term.
The Speaker identified seven key focus areas aimed at strengthening Parliament’s legislative, oversight and representative functions.
The priorities include zero tolerance for corruption, strengthened accountability and strict compliance with public finance management laws, evidence-based legislation, people-centred lawmaking, results-based budgeting, an open Parliament that promotes transparency and professionalism while fostering collaboration with the media and other stakeholders, and proactive oversight through real-time monitoring and evaluation of government programmes by parliamentary committees.
The induction seminar brings together newly elected and returning Members of Parliament to familiarize them with parliamentary procedures, legislative responsibilities and the strategic direction of the 12th Parliament.
The emphasis on accountability by both the Speaker and the Leader of the Opposition signals broad recognition of Parliament’s constitutional role in ensuring sensible management of public resources and effective oversight of government programmes as the new House begins its work.
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